Ireland's presence at MerleFest 2010

Thanks to Louis O'Dwyer, a pillar of the scene in the Tullamore area, for the following PRESS RELEASE:

It is reported by their press officer that the official ROI emissaries have had their first (and probably final) MERLEFEST 2010 reconnaissance meeting at the Cobblestone on Saturday evening last. They were officially welcomed by Banjo Bill & the other resident musicians and the tour agenda was speedily approved & signed off. The trusted envoy for MERLEFEST 2010 is made up of Dermot Reidy (tour manager), Pat Sheeran (P.R.O), and Louis O'Dwyer (logistics officer), each a noted stalwart to all things OTM & bluegrass.

The evening's music and song soon got under way, and the multi-stringed assemblage of resident and guest musicians put forth a quality selection of spirited old-time entertainment, much to the delectation of the entire company. Upon conclusion of the evening's proceedings, Bill Whelan was joined by all present in wishing the delegates bon voyage for 29 April, and Bill stated that the OTM and B/G brethren back home looked forward to the news bulletins and post-event reports expected to follow in May from N.C.